Hotel Albergo, Beirut, Lebanon

Old world charm and top-notch personal service meet at the Albergo Hotel. A boutique gem in the heart of the residential Ashrafieh neighborhood it is only a 10-minute walk to the hustle and bustle of downtown Beirut. This luxury hotel opened in 1998 after years of renovation and restoration. The building, which dates from the 1930’s had once housed apartments for one family. Start your day with a delicious breakfast on the beautiful and calm 9thfloor terrace; end your afternoon with a swim and a Kir Royale at the rooftop pool. Each of the all-suite rooms are uniquely decorated. All are opulent with marble bathrooms and huge tubs (with attached showers). Returning guests quickly find their favorite. A new wing will be added in 2020 These rooms will share the same glamorous design but will have walk in showers.

Number of Rooms: 33 (with 26 more to come)

Sweet Suite: The Royal Suite, labelled a trip to the Orient, its spectacular décor and location appealed so much to one guest he rented for 4 years. Consisting of over 100 square meters of perfect design and a large terrace it is again be available for shorter stays.

Favorite Thing: the marvelous old elevator. You truly feel like you are leaving the stresses of the modern world behind and entering a magical land when the glass door closes and the soothing rumble begins. (there is also a stair case if you are too impatient to wait)

Nearby: wonderful Old Lebanese architecture lines the streets in this wealth residential neighborhood, Restaurant Liza (one of my favorites) is a 4-minute walk, 10-minute walk to the National Museum and an easy walk to downtown. The hotel is happy to arrange cabs (easy peasy) or a car and driver to other locations.